Spilling the T #10

Spilling the T; Triplar Ltd’s Bi-monthly Newsletter, designed to lead you on a journey of discovery. Highlighting our world-wide interests, inspirations and the latest innovations that have caught our eye. Click subscribe to be notified of each edition.

Global Retail:?4 Retail Bites

• Just in time for summer, Stormzy and 阿迪达斯 have partnered to build a centre for the youth in Croydon called Merky FC HQ. In the words of Stormzy, it’s a place to "play, create and collaborate.” The centre combines sports and creativity, including a state-of-the-art recording studio, a fresh football pitch, a dance studio, and a gaming room sponsored by EA Sports! Housing multiple development opportunities in both career and education, here the youth can be inspired to go further than they ever dreamed.
• 马莎百货 have taken job interviews to a whole new level, and we get to watch it happen right in front of our eyes. The fate of the retailer’s next Junior Designer will be decided over the span of a 6-part series provisionally titled 'Dress the Nation.' Set to launch on ITV & ITVX this autumn, viewers can explore the creativity of 10 contestants as they shine through, competing to land a dream role at M&S. With AJ Odudu and Vernon Kay as the hosts, we’re in for a treat.
• Superdrug Cosmetics is stepping up to support loyal shoppers by freezing prices on over 5,000 products amidst the rising cost of living. From their own brand to popular names like Maybelline and Rimmel, the Superdrug health and beauty chain is ensuring that customers can save big without compromising on quality. But wait, there's more! The Perfume Shop has also extended its 2023 price freeze campaign on over 100 fragrances until 2025, offering savings of up to 75% across 43 brands. With both Superdrug and The Perfume Shop freezing prices, you can look and smell fabulous without breaking the bank.
• Back for a second edition, American fashion house Stussy, Inc. has reunited with Moroccan women's weaving group Artisan Project, creating a unique boucherouite rug collection crafted from upcycled T-Shirts. Palestinian-American textile maker Nina Mohammed led this project using ancestral rugs, vintage graphics and the beauty of nature as her inspiration. The designer pulled upcycled Stu?ssy T-shirts that were unable to be sold due to manufacturing process errors, giving them a second chance to shine. The loving care is beautifully shown in each truly unique piece as no two rugs are the same.

One-Off: "From URL to IRL"

As much-loved brands begin to leave the high street, it is refreshing to witness popular online retailers embrace brick-and-mortar establishments. From pop-ups to permanent stores, these brands are redefining the shopping experience.

Gymshark got physical by opening their flagship store in Regent Street, beautifully embodying their brand ethos. Each detail is intentionally gym-breathed from large-format inspirational quotes to unique barbell clothing racks, bringing their passion for fitness to the high street.

Community has always been at the heart of Gymshark, and this store allows customers to experience 1-1 shopping in a dedicated space, attend year-round fitness events and admire mannequins inclusively modelled after the Gymshark clientele. Fitness enthusiasts are in luck as we hear they have plans to open future stores, if you haven’t already been you need to stop by.

?On the topic of flagship stores, Odd Muse, best known for their timeless blazers and viral pearl dresses, has not only secured a place in department store chain Harvey Nichols but recently opened their flagship store in Covent Garden. Described as "a captivating boutique where the extraordinary meets the everyday," Odd Muse bridges the gap between fast fashion and unattainable luxury.?

It's not unusual for online retailers to dip their toes in the water with pop-up stores before diving into the deep end. In fact, we highly recommend this approach as a great form of research. Take Tala, for instance, the sustainable activewear retailer, that now graces the shelves of Selfridges stores across the UK. Could this be the sign of a permanent physical store coming to a high street near you?

?As online retailers breathe new life into traditional retail spaces, they not only offer unique shopping experiences but also rejuvenate the spirit of community and connection which once was the heart of every high street.

Insta Takes: Drink Pop-Up Shops

Aperol, Poppi, Nespresso, Oatly

Spotlight: The World's Greatest Set Designer

During the golden era of Hollywood, it would be impossible to mention set designers without Cedric Gibbons coming to mind. Renowned for his art direction on some of Hollywood's most iconic sets, he also gained fame for designing the Oscar statuette, which he allegedly sketched on a napkin. He worked on over 150 movie sets and is best known for his exceptional work on classics like “Tarzan and His Mate”, “The Wizard of Oz”, and “Pride and Prejudice.”

After graduating from New York's Art Students League, the Irish American began his career as a junior draftsman at his father’s architectural office. There, he developed the fundamental skills that led him to join the Edison Studios' art department, assisting the successful art director, Hugo Ballin.

?

Describing the Art Director's role as the one who "makes everyone’s dreams come true," Gibbons ascended to head the art department at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM films) from 1924 to 1956. This remains one of the most notable studios in Hollywood featuring their recognisable roaring lion trademark. Gibbons has since been credited on over 1,500 MGM projects, as no set design went into production without his approval.

?

His work, heavily influenced by motion picture theatre architecture, shaped design trends both on and off the screen. He imprinted MGM films’ distinct luxurious and elegant aesthetic, favouring stark white interiors that featured 3D architecture, geometric patterns, and striking staircases. His expertise in set design and architecture even led him to design his Santa Monica residence for his movie star wife, now a designated Los Angeles historical landmark.

?

Remember when we said he designed the Oscar statuette? Good thing he liked how they looked because throughout his career he was nominated for 39 Art Direction Academy Awards and went on to win 11 of them. This is a category record that remains unsurpassed to this day, which, based on wins, makes him the Academy’s most successful art director in history.

Triplar Recommends:

• Heim Café Lisbon, Portugal: This brunch spot is full of character with its fresh plants and colourful food servings. The food is a blend of fresh, flavourful delights and the staff welcome you like an old friend even if you barely speak Portuguese. They’re well known for their pancakes and French toast, and they did not disappoint. You’re also in luck if you enjoy big portion sizes.??
• The Last Dinner Party: The debut album from ‘The Last Dinner Party’ was released earlier this year, featuring their huge hit ‘Prelude to Ecstasy’- you will want to play this one on repeat. They bring together harmonies and raw energy to create a unique sound that has been compared to music legends like Queen and Florence and the Machine.?If you're a fan of their music, you'll be happy to know that they're currently on tour until October,?catch them while you can to experience their sound in person!
• Pieces of Her: Book turned Netflix series, 'Pieces of Her', follows Andrea's journey to piece together the truth of her mother’s troubled past. Why has her mother tried so desperately to hide her previous life? No spoilers over here, you'll have to watch to find out. Filled with twists and turns, this thriller will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
• Grand Mandarin Nile Cruise: Want to explore the wonders of Egypt across a 7-night Nile cruise? Then the Grand Mandarin is for you. Embarking in Luxor and travelling to Aswan, discover the rich history and breath-taking beauty of ancient Egypt as you explore renowned sites including Luxor Temple and The Valley of the Kings and Queens. Set sail on the cruise that offers an unforgettable blend of exploration, relaxation, and culture.

This is Your Sign to Book That Team Social

As a business that is spread across multiple locations- Wellingborough, Corby, Prague and Remote- we treasure the moments that we can spend quality time together.

Last month, our team from all locations joined forces for an intense axe-throwing competition bringing together colleagues who, for some, had only just met. Meeting face-to-face after months of virtual communications was a welcomed change, allowing us to appreciate each other’s personalities beyond work emails and video calls.

The outing offered the opportunity for everyone to connect in a relaxed and fun environment, experiencing first-hand how a day filled with games, good food and laughter can spark conversations that deepen our understanding and respect for one another.?

So, this is your reminder to value the importance of spending time with your team outside of the office. This precious time allows us to learn more about one another and build stronger connections, ultimately leading to better teamwork and collaboration.

Our axe-throwing team outing was a day filled with games, laughter and great memories, so if you're looking for your next team-building event what better way to bond than axe-throwing?

"It was a good fun, good experience, great to see the team after a while and of course pleasure to beat everyone at Axe Throwing ??? I consider myself being a “city boy” but maybe last 6 years living in house preparing wood for fireplace left some skills." -Marek Murdych, One of Our Axe Throwing Champions

Did you find this newsletter insightful? Enter our world of retail and join our network. Press Subscribe to receive future instalments.